The False Servant

Lélio tries to ditch his rich woman he has promised to marry in order to become the husband of an even wealthier girl from Paris, but he doesn't know that the Chevalier is actually the same girl disguised as a man. Marivaux's exploration of human feeling asks what we hide from others and ourselves, and Martin Crimp's version of the play received its premiere at the National Theatre in 2004 and was revived at the Orange Tree Theatre in June 2022.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 96 pages
Publication date: 16 June 2022
Publisher: Faber & Faber

Are you truly astonished to learn that a woman possesses her own independent thoughts and opinions?

When Lélio believes he can abandon and capitalize on the wealthy woman he has promised to marry, in pursuit of becoming the husband of an even wealthier girl from Paris, he seeks the assistance of his charming new friend, the Chevalier. What he fails to realize is that the Chevalier is none other than this same girl from Paris disguised as a man, and her mission is to publicly expose the depths of his sexual cynicism. A self-proclaimed modern, Marivaux pioneers the exploration of human emotion, posing profound questions in this play: What do we conceal from others? And what are we hiding from ourselves?

Martin Crimp's adaptation of Pierre Marivaux's The False Servant received its premiere at the National Theatre in London in 2004, and was revived at the Orange Tree Theatre in London in June 2022. Marivaux's skepticism, irony, and fascination with money and sex render him remarkably contemporary.

The Guardian praises the play for its thrilling, chilling, and belly-laugh-inducing qualities, describing it as an addictively adult comedy that possesses everything. The Daily Telegraph also hails it as a masterpiece, praising its witty dialogue, clever plot, and outstanding performances.

Through his exploration of human emotions and societal norms, Marivaux offers a thought-provoking and entertaining perspective on the complexities of human relationships and the pursuit of happiness. His play continues to resonate with audiences today, reminding us of the importance of individuality and the power of self-discovery.

Weight: 100g
Dimension: 197 x 128 x 7 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780571363902
Edition number: Main